Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that is also used to prevent cavities and treat dry mouth. This eMedTV Web page further explains what xylitol is used for, explores the product's effectiveness, and lists side effects that may occur.
Xylitol may be beneficial for preventing cavities, treating dry mouth, and preventing ear infections. This eMedTV resource lists other possible xylitol benefits and explains how the sugar substitute may work for these alleged uses.
Diarrhea and gas are some of the more commonly reported xylitol side effects. As this eMedTV Web page explains, xylitol does not usually cause side effects when used in small amounts. High doses are more likely to cause noticeable problems.
Xylitol products are claimed to be useful for several conditions, but does xylitol work? This eMedTV page explores the effectiveness of xylitol for preventing dental cavities, treating dry mouth, and preventing ear infections in children.
Studies of xylitol for preventing cavities used doses ranging from 7 to 20 grams daily. As this eMedTV page explains, there is currently no well-established xylitol dosage for any use, so general dosing guidelines are based on clinical studies.
Xylitol is not known to interact with any other medications. As this page from the eMedTV library explains, however, just because there are no known xylitol drug interactions at this time does not mean that interactions are not possible.
Many people may wonder if xylitol is safe when used medicinally. This article from the eMedTV archives offers general warnings and precautions with xylitol and includes important information on who should not use this product.
The full risks of using xylitol during pregnancy are not known at this time. This eMedTV article provides more information on xylitol and pregnancy, and weighs some of the benefits and potential risks of using the product while pregnant.
It is generally believed that xylitol products are safe for breastfeeding women. This eMedTV segment further explores the link between xylitol and breastfeeding, and explains how it may even be beneficial for infants whose mothers use the product.
A xylitol overdose may cause diarrhea and gas, some of the usual side effects of the product. This eMedTV resource explores other potential effects of an overdose and explains what treatment options are available, if treatment is even necessary.
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